Jonathan McNeal

Bio

A tackling machine from his linebacker position, McNeal led the Nevada Wolfpack defense with more than 100 stops in 2013 and will be one of the league’s prime candidates for post-season honors in 2014. The leader of the Wolfpack defense, McNeal is a 6-1, 235-pounder who can play physical in the middle of the field or roam sideline-to-sideline looking to make plays. His continued improvement and health will be key for the Nevada defense in 2014.

High School/Junior College

Was a standout at Venice High School in California, lettering in football and basketball all four years. In football, he was part of three straight conference championship teams beginning his sophomore year and was named All-Western League as a junior and senior.

In 2010, he enrolled at Santa Monica City College where he played a single season, but showed his promise by being named first-team all-Pacific League at linebacker.

College

McNeal joined Nevada early, participating in spring drills in 2011 before being redshirted. In 2012, he played in all 13 games, though none were starts. He tallied 16 tackles and forced a fumble. In 2013, he promise was fulfilled as he earned a starting spot in the Wolfpack defense. He recorded 103 tackles, including 59 solo stops, four tackles for loss and a sack on the year.